Written by Luke Anderson.
At a rally supporting Kamala Harris’s 2024 presidential bid, a self-identified transgender rallygoer voiced their fervent support for Harris due to her commitment to safeguarding abortion rights nationwide. This perspective was captured in an interview by Tayler Hansen of Tenet Media, as reported by the Post Millennial.
When asked, “Why are y’all voting for Kamala Harris?” one rallygoer expressed deep concern over losing their rights, particularly the ability to access abortion services. “I’m a trans man and I’m gay. I’ve been pregnant and had an abortion before, and I don’t want to lose that right,” the individual, who presented as female, explained. They further mentioned their fear that under a Trump presidency, their ability to express themselves through their appearance could be threatened. “I’m afraid of not being able to be myself anymore, because from what I’ve heard, Trump’s America doesn’t want me to look like this, so that’s why I’m here today and that’s why I’m voting blue,” they added.
Another participant at the rally, also presenting as female, echoed similar sentiments, highlighting their past abortion experience and the fear that a Trump victory might stifle personal expression. “If Trump wins, I’m worried I won’t be able to express myself through my looks, or anything, and wouldn’t be able to have the piercings or the dyed hair or the tattoos that I want,” they said.
Misinformation and Misplaced Fears Among Rallygoers
Despite these concerns, there is no evidence that Trump has proposed restricting individuals’ appearances or preventing self-expression through tattoos, piercings, or hair dye. A video from around 2014 shows Trump advising his son, Barron, against getting tattoos, but this was a personal opinion, not a policy stance.
These rallygoers seem to have been influenced by misinformation regarding Trump’s policies, particularly his stance on abortion. While Trump has supported exceptions for abortion in cases of rape, incest, and to protect the life of the mother, he has consistently stated that abortion legislation should be decided by individual states. This centrist approach contrasts with the fears expressed by the rallygoers.
In Arizona, where the rally took place, abortion laws have recently seen significant changes. In April, the state Supreme Court initially ruled in favor of enforcing an 1864 ban on abortions at all stages of pregnancy. However, this law was quickly repealed by lawmakers, allowing abortions up to 15 weeks. A measure on the state’s November ballot seeks to extend this limit to 24 weeks.
Our Take
The rallygoers’ concerns appear to stem from a blend of misinformation and personal fears rather than factual evidence. Trump’s policies, especially regarding abortion and personal expression, have been misrepresented, leading to unnecessary anxiety. This highlights a broader issue of misinformation in political discourse, which can significantly impact public opinion and voting behavior. It’s crucial for voters to seek accurate information and critically evaluate the sources of their beliefs. Allowing misinformation to guide political decisions is detrimental to a well-informed electorate and, ultimately, to the democratic process.
“Why are you voting for Kamala Harris?”
Harris Rally Attendee: “I don’t want to lose my rights. Like I am a trans man and I’m gay and I have been pregnant and had an abortion before and I don’t want to lose that.” pic.twitter.com/G2Cpk0IBrU
— TENET Media (@watchTENETnow) August 10, 2024
